SEYMOUR, Ind. – The state of Indiana recognized a pair of Seymour Police Department (SFD) officers on Tuesday. Indiana State Fire Marshal Stephen Jones awarded officers Sam Hughes and Joe Fagan the Medal of Valor.
On May 27, while on routine patrol, Officers Sam Hughes and Joe Fagan happened upon a fully engulfed residential structure fire. They immediately approached the house and rescued a female from the entryway.
They then reentered the smoke and flame-filled home in an attempt to rescue another individual before being forced to retreat as the roof collapsed on them. Both were treated for smoke inhalation at Schneck Medical Center.
Fire Marshal Jones said, “There have been comparatively few recipients of this prestigious award who are police officers. Thank you, gentlemen, for selflessly and honorably serving our community. There is no greater tribute to life than the willingness to protect it with one’s own life.”